Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn Las Vegas is at 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S. (just s. of Desert Inn Rd.). Built in 2005 on hallowed Vegas turf—the former site of the legendary Desert Inn—über entrepreneur Steve Wynn's luxury megaresort broke new ground in casino design. The hotel—a 50-story, copper-colored, crescent-shaped tower—eschews the theme resort model in favor of a simple, bold architectural statement. Entering the main lobby, you're greeted not by beeping slots and a rowdy mob of craps players, but rather a tranquil atrium filled with trees, plants and natural light. Lovely tile mosaics add splashes of color to the marble floors. Soft jazz plays on the sound system. Tourists pose for snapshots.

Moving on to the elegant casino, high-minimum tables are the norm, and the pricey machines don't offer much relief for low-stakes gamblers. A little hunting, though, will turn up a few 25-cent slots. Card sharks love the classy poker room.

Though not visible from the Strip, in front of the hotel stands a 140-foot-tall faux mountain complete with waterfalls and lush landscaping; you'll find it near the pedestrian bridge connecting Wynn with the Palazzo across the street. Resort restaurants range from casual eateries to fine dining, though be aware in the Wynn universe “casual” does not mean cheap. Win a bundle in the casino? Go shopping at the high-end Wynn Esplanade, or book a tee time for the on-site 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Fazio.